1 Corinthians 15:20-28 is a passage in the New Testament of the Christian Bible, authored by the Apostle Paul. This passage is part of a larger discussion concerning the resurrection of the dead, a central tenet of Christian belief. Here’s a breakdown of these verses and their meaning:
Context
In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul addresses doubts and questions about the resurrection of the dead among the Corinthians. He emphasizes the importance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ as the foundation for the Christian faith and the hope of believers for their own resurrection.
Verses Breakdown
1 Corinthians 15:20-28 (NIV):
20 But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.
21 For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.
22 For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.
23 But each in turn: Christ, the firstfruits; then, when he comes, those who belong to him.
24 Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority, and power.
25 For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet.
26 The last enemy to be destroyed is death.
27 For he “has put everything under his feet.” Now when it says that “everything” has been put under him, it is clear that this does not include God himself, who put everything under Christ.
28 When he has done this, then the Son himself will be made subject to him who put everything under him, so that God may be all in all.
Meaning
Christ as the Firstfruits (v. 20): Paul asserts that Jesus Christ has been resurrected, serving as the “firstfruits” of those who have died. This term refers to the first harvested portion of a crop, symbolizing the promise of more to come. Jesus’ resurrection is the first of many, indicating that believers will also be raised.
Death and Resurrection (v. 21-22): Paul contrasts the consequences of Adam’s sin (death) with the life brought through Christ’s resurrection. Just as death entered the world through Adam, life and resurrection come through Christ. This highlights the theological concept of original sin and redemption.
Order of Resurrection (v. 23): Paul outlines the order of resurrection, emphasizing that Christ is the first to rise, followed by those who belong to him at his second coming. This establishes a timeline and assures believers of their future resurrection.
The Kingdom and Authority (v. 24-25): Paul speaks of a future time when Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father, indicating a complete victory over all powers and enemies, including death. This underscores the ultimate sovereignty of God.
Defeating Death (v. 26): Death is identified as the last enemy to be defeated, emphasizing its significance in the Christian narrative of salvation and hope. The finality of death’s defeat is essential for the establishment of eternal life.
Christ’s Authority (v. 27-28): Paul clarifies that while all things are placed under Christ’s authority, God the Father remains supreme. Ultimately, after the completion of God’s plan, the Son will submit to the Father, which reaffirms the unity and hierarchy within the Trinity. This submission does not imply inferiority but rather the fulfillment of divine order and purpose.
Conclusion
1 Corinthians 15:20-28 encapsulates the hope of resurrection through Christ, the defeat of death, and the ultimate authority of God. It reflects core Christian beliefs about life after death and the eventual restoration of all things. This passage reassures believers of their future resurrection and the victory of Christ over sin and death, affirming the central message of the Gospel.